Quarter 3 2018 saw a continued narrowing of the trade balance, with a very slim surplus of 0,3%. Year-on-year import growth of 12,8% was more than double export growth of 6% over the same period.Exports were buoyed by strong growth by the automotive sector, and iron and steel; as well as by a mild recovery in commodity prices for gold and platinum.

Quarter 2 2018 continued a trend of recovery in trade volumes. 2018 also featured a trade surplus for the quarter, although the 5% surplus was lower than the previous two years - 8% in 2017 and 10% in 2016.

Quarter 1 2018 marked the first trade deficit since Quarter 1 2016, but nevertheless featured a continued recovery in general trade volumes following a contraction in trade after the end of the commodity super cycle.